Protests Over New Ghandi Film....
A new movie charting Mahatma Ghandi's difficult relationship with his son has sparked protests in India, with many calling for its release to be blocked.Gandhi My Father tells of the tensions between the former Indian political leader and his eldest son Harilal, who converted to Islam to spite his father and later died of alcoholism.It is due for release in India next month (03Aug07) but much of the population is outraged by the 'irreverent' way their national hero's private life has been examined.Razi Ahmad, secretary of Gandhi Sangrahalaya, a research centre in Patna, is calling for India's president to block the movie altogether.He says, "The name of Mahatma Gandhi or that of any other national leader should not be used for commercial purposes."It is against the law of the land. We are of the view that any attempt to tarnish the image of national heroes should not be permitted".However, Tushar Gandhi, the grandson of Manilal Gandhi - the second of Gandhi's sons - has defended the project, and urges people to watch the film before condemning it.He says, "It is a very well-made film. It is sincere to the subject.
"It's not as if any new filth has been brought out. What I like about the film is the sensitive exploration of relationships, the tragedy of silence. The biggest thing between father and son was the wall of silence. They were not able to communicate freely, unfortunately".